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upon a time there was a King and a Queen who were perfectly happy together; they loved each other most affectionately, and their subjects adored them; but the regret was universal, that there was not an heir to the crown. The Queen, who felt persuaded that the King would love her still more if she brought him one, went in the spring to drink the waters at some baths that were in high estimation. People flocked to them in crowds, and the number of strangers was so great, that persons from all parts of the world were to be found there.

There were several fountains, in a large wood, that the visitors went to drink from; they were surrounded by marble and porphyry; for every one was anxious to ornament them. One day that the Queen was sitting at the edge of one of the fountains, she desired all her ladies to retire and leave her by herself. She then began to complain as usual. "Am I not very unfortunate," said she, "to have no offspring? The poorest women have some children; it is now five years since I have prayed for one, and I have not yet obtained my wish! Shall I die without this gratification!"

As she thus spoke, she remarked that the water in the fountain was agitated. Presently a large Crab appeared, and said, "Great Queen, you shall have your wish. I must inform you, that hardby there is a superb palace, which the fairies have built; but it is impossible for you to find it, because it is surrounded by thick clouds, that no mortal eye could penetrate; however, I am your very humble servant; if you will trust yourself to the conduct of a poor crab, I offer to lead you there."

The Queen listened without interrupting her, the novelty